Legal Netlink Alliance (LNA) is proud to spotlight one of its most dynamic and forward-looking initiatives: the NextWave Program, launched in 2023 with a bold vision to empower the next generation of legal professionals across its global network. What began as an idea to bring together young attorneys across jurisdictions has now become a fully-fledged program fostering collaboration, mentorship, and international opportunity.

From the outset, NextWave - which was created during alliance's 3rd Global Meeting in Paris, in 2023 - was designed to offer young lawyers meaningful pathways to grow through global exposure, skill development, and lasting professional relationships. At the heart of the initiative is a commitment to career support, knowledge sharing, and secondment opportunities — all centered around building a vibrant community of emerging legal talent within LNA member firms.

“The NextWavers are already making their mark at Legal Netlink Alliance,” says Mihai Voicu, President of the LNA Europe Board. “This program is all about ensuring our future by bringing in fresh energy, new ideas, and smart young professionals ready to take the lead. It’s our way of passing the baton—and the results are already inspiring.”

Leaders and Visionaries Behind the Program

The NextWave Program was brought to life by a dedicated team of young leaders: Lisette Oosterveen (Wintertaling, Netherlands), Lorena Ciobanu (ONV LAW, Romania) and Anik Müller (ARNECKE SIBETH DABELSTEIN, Germany). Supported by LNA Europe Board Members Mihai Voicu and Tomasz Janaszczyk, these professionals laid the groundwork for an initiative that’s now setting a benchmark for young lawyer development across the network.

“Excited to be on board with the NextWave Program,” shares Lisette Oosterveen, “a great initiative that brings together young lawyers to help shape the future of our profession. Since the launch, we’ve made significant progress, particularly with the development of the Secondment Program: a program enabling the opportunity to team up with LNA member firms, to share legal knowledge and to support professional growth.”

Launching the Secondment Program: Building Cross-Border Bridges

A cornerstone of the NextWave initiative is the Secondment Program, first introduced during the LNA meeting in Gent, January 2025, and met with immediate enthusiasm. It offers short-term international work experiences for young lawyers from member firms, facilitating cultural and professional exchange across jurisdictions.

“Proud to have been involved in the NextWave project from the very beginning,” says Lorena Ciobanu of ONV LAW, “and to see the Secondment Program evolving into a valuable platform that enables young lawyers to grow, build lasting cross-firm relationships, and help shape the next generation of legal talent across the LNA network. Excited to see what's next!”

The Secondment Program will be launched in Chicago, during Legal Netlink Alliance 4th Global Meeting hosted by Aronberg Goldgehn, June 18-21, 2025. During the global meeting members coming from all over the world will discuss the initiative and find synergies with the Young Lawyers Division initiative created by LNA North America,

"No industry can survive and grow without anticipating its succession, especially with the technological developments that are shaping our work (AI), and there will be no succession unless we empower our young and developing colleagues. The Next Wave is crucial for what we are and we are very grateful for their contribution to our network and our meetings." - says Marein Smits, member of the LNA Europe Board, who is set to moderate The Next Generation of LNA panel during the Chicago conference.

The Four Pillars of the Secondment Program

To ensure consistent value and experience for all participants, the Secondment Program is structured around four foundational pillars:

1. Duration – Standard placements are two weeks, with flexibility for longer or shorter arrangements.
2. Costs – Generally covered by the Sending Firm, ensuring equitable access and low barriers for Hosting Firms.
3. Reciprocity – Firms that host young lawyers are encouraged to also send participants, nurturing mutual benefit and balanced exchange.
4. Continuity – Participants maintain alignment with their firm’s ongoing work, with potential for tailored learning experiences during the secondment.

An easy-to-use application system will soon be live on the LNA website, complete with “rules of engagement” and application forms, making participation in the program smooth and accessible for any firm in the network.

Listening to the Voices of Young Lawyers

The direction and design of the NextWave initiative have been informed by direct input from its target audience. A NextWave Questionnaire, surveying over 100 young legal professionals (ages 23–39) from LNA firms, revealed a shared enthusiasm for mentorship, international exposure, and cross-border collaboration. Participants also expressed a clear desire for work-life balance, leadership opportunities, and innovative legal practice models.

Looking Ahead: A Growing Network of Talent and Opportunity

NextWave is more than a professional development program—it’s an investment in the future of legal practice, creating stronger, more agile connections across the LNA network. As the initiative continues to evolve, its impact is already visible in the energy and ambition of its participants.

With continued support from LNA leadership and increasing involvement from member firms, the NextWave Program promises to be a powerful platform for cultivating the next generation of legal leaders, expanding global cooperation, and ensuring that every young lawyer in the LNA network has a meaningful opportunity to thrive.

Join the NextWave. Shape the future.